Post-Arab Spring, a new feminist revolution awaits

Women are playing an increasing role in the governments of Arab states, but many challenges to achieving equality lay ahead

By Carol Giacomo / NY Times News Service, TUNIS

Even in Tunisia, where secularists have a stronger voice and Ennahda has espoused more temperate views than most Islamist parties, women had to take to the streets in protest over efforts by some of the more conservative assembly members to dilute protections for women contained in a 1956 law. The Islamists wanted language in the constitution to say that the roles of men and women are “complementary.” The secularists, fearful of ceding any ground, insisted that men and women should have “the same rights and duties” and added an assurance that the state will guarantee women’s rights.

Ennahda leaders say that the final document will unambiguously endorse gender equality and universal rights. However, until the constitution is formally adopted, no one can be sure.